Khalistan supporters protest at Times Square in New York

In order to show their support for the wanted radical preacher Amritpal Singh, numerous Khalistan sympathisers staged a demonstration in this city’s famous Times Square.

On Sunday afternoon, in the midst of heavy security, the demonstrators staged an automobile procession that began at the Baba Makhan Shah Lubana Sikh Center in the Richmond Hill neighbourhood and finished at Times Square in the centre of Manhattan.

Numerous vehicles carrying Khalistani flags and LED mobile billboard trucks displaying images of Singh crisscrossed the streets close to the event with blasting music and loud horns.

Many men, women, and kids flocked to the well-known New York location, carrying the flags of Khalistan, and shouting rally chants.

The protesters, carrying placards reading ‘Free Amritpal Singh’ , held up photos of         Singh and raised anti-India slogans.

The car rally took place the day after supporters of Khalistan gathered outside the Indian Embassy in Washington on Saturday. Many of their speakers attempted to incite violence, but prompt action by the US Secret Service and local police prevented a repetition of the vandalism incidents at the Indian missions in San Francisco and London.

India stated on Friday that it hoped the host countries will bring charges against individuals responsible for destruction at its missions abroad rather than just offering reassurance.

Speaking at the weekly briefing, Arindam Bagchi, spokesman for the External Affairs Ministry, said that New Delhi also anticipates the host countries to take action to stop the recurrence of similar instances.

“I think we are not just interested in assurances, I think we would like to see action,” the      External Affairs Ministry spokesman said.